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A first assessment of genetic variability in the Eurasian Stone‐curlew Burhinus oedicnemus
Author(s) -
Mori Alessia,
Baldaccini Natale E.,
Baratti Mariella,
Caccamo Chiara,
DessìFulgheri Francesco,
Grasso Rosario,
Nouira Said,
Ouni Ridha,
Pollonara Enrica,
RodriguezGodoy Felipe,
Spena Maria T.,
Giunchi Dimitri
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
ibis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.933
H-Index - 80
eISSN - 1474-919X
pISSN - 0019-1019
DOI - 10.1111/ibi.12164
Subject(s) - subspecies , geography , taxon , ecology , mediterranean climate , genetic structure , mediterranean islands , conservation status , population , biology , habitat , genetic variation , demography , sociology
The Eurasian Stone‐curlew is a species of conservation concern in Europe. We investigate for the first time the extent of population structure among populations sampled from six geographical areas, representing four subspecies inhabiting the western part of the species' distribution. Neither mitochondrial nor nuclear markers fully supported current subspecies boundaries. However, both markers support significant differentiation of the Canary Island populations from those sampled from the Mediterranean. Further work is needed to establish the taxonomic status of this potentially distinct Macaronesian taxon. More broadly, further genetic research is required to design and implement an effective conservation plan for this species.